Robert F.

Math is a series of simple steps. As such, all "big" math problems are a set of "simple" math problems. The more complex the math problem the more simple steps required to solve the math problem. Once a student learns this basic concept they lose the fear of doing math problems.

Math revolves around the equal sign. For a math equation, this means that what is on the right side equals what is on the left side. Solving math problems then becomes a matter of using tools (tricks) to adjust the equation to a form that has the answer (for example, x=3). The bottleneck in math is learning the tricks that make solving an equation easier. However, it is not necessary to know the tricks to solve math problems. The tricks only make it easier and/or faster. The two principle tools are 1) what you do to one side you must do to the other side (to maintain the equal sign) and 2) you can always multiple one side by 1. Simple rules that are the basis for solving all math problems.

I enjoy math and teaching math. I also enjoy teaching physics which is applied math. I also like the other sciences which also include math concepts but require memorizing concepts. The ratio of math to memorizing is highest for physics and then drops through chemistry, organic chemistry and biochemistry. Nonetheless, these are all very interesting subjects.

I used my B.S. degree in biophysics and Ph.D. in biochemistry to create a small biotechnology company. As such I understand how math and science are applied in the job market. I believe I can add value to any student interested in math and/or science.

Robert's Subjects

Math:	ACT Math, algebra 1, algebra 2, geometry, prealgebra, precalculus, SAT math, trigonometry
Science:	biochemistry, biology, chemistry, organic chemistry, physical science, physics
Test Preparation:	ACT Math, SAT math
Homeschool:	algebra 1, algebra 2, biology, chemistry, geometry, physics, prealgebra, precalculus, SAT math

Algebra 1

Algebra 1 expands on the power of the equal side and methods to solve for variables. To maintain the equal sign, what is done to one side must be done to the other side. Methods (or tricks) to solve for variables include breaking equations down into components to isolate the variable of interest.

Algebra 2

Algebra 2 is a further expansion of algebra 1 to solve equations for variables. One purpose of algebra 2 is to further help students identify the appropriate method (trick) for solving an equation. This can be considered pattern recognition and through practice it becomes easier to recognize the "best" process for solving an equation. A key to algebra 2 (like all math) is practice to gain confidence for pattern recognition.

Geometry

Geometry is a focus on closed figures such as squares, circles, etc. Methods to solve for area inside a closed figure and distance around a closed figure (perimeter) are presented. The simplest closed figure is the triangle and methods to determine equivalence of triangles are presented as well as special cases of right triangles, equilateral triangles, and isosceles triangles.

Prealgebra

The primary purpose of prealgebra is to understand the power of the equal sign. The equal sign is like the fulcrum of a see-saw. For the see-saw to be horizontal both sides need to be equal in weight. The second purpose is to introduce the concept of variables (place holders) and basic methods to solve for a variable. To solve for a variable what is done to one side must be done to the other side to maintain the equal sign.

Precalculus

Precalculus, as the name implies, is a general knowledge of math concepts needed to be successful learning calculus. Precalculus solidifies pattern recognition techniques for solving equations. An important technique is an understanding of determinants as a tool for solving equations. This subject further enhances a students confidence using math techniques to achieve a goal (usually determining the value of a variable).

Trigonometry

Trigonometry involves measure of angles in degrees or radians. Using the unit circle (r=1) values for sine, cosine, etc can be calculated. Further manipulation provides for identities to calculate the sum of two angles, the difference of two angles, double angles, and power-reducing identities to name a few. A general knowledge of algebra is required to manipulate the equations used in trigonometry.

Organic Chemistry

Organic chemistry is a subset of general chemistry with a focus on hydrocarbons which are the fundamental building blocks of all living entities. An understanding of carbon is essential in organic chemistry. Carbon forms 4 covalent bonds with other elements and itself allowing for formation of chains. A number of fundamental reactions occur with hydrocarbons including Sn2 reactions, E2 elimination, nucleophilic substitution, and electrophilic aromatic substitutions to name a few. Functional groups... Read More

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